Matera: Cooking Class & lunch with wine into Olive Grove

Discover Matera: Cooking Class & Lunch with Wine into Olive Grove for an authentic taste of Lucanian cuisine in the tranquil countryside of Basilicata, Italy. Priced at $67.97 per person, this 4.5-hour experience offers a perfect blend of hands-on cooking, local wine, and scenic views. Starting near Tricarico, the tour combines culinary tradition with natural beauty, making it ideal for those eager to learn regional recipes in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of a tour of the olive grove and a tasting of cold cuts and cheeses adds depth to this flavorful journey.

While the experience is designed to be engaging and educational, it’s worth noting that transfers are not included, so guests should plan their transportation accordingly. This tour suits adults and older children (over 5), especially those interested in Italian food or countryside scenery. The private group setting ensures a personalized atmosphere, and the multilingual guides speak English, French, and Portuguese, making communication smooth and enjoyable.

Key Points

• Authentic Lucanian cuisine: Learn to make fresh pasta and Braciole alla Lucana in a hands-on class.
• Local wines and olive tea: Enjoy your homemade meal paired with regional wines and olive leaf herbal tea.
• Beautiful countryside setting: Experience the peaceful ambiance of the olive grove and scenic landscapes.
• Includes a grove tour: Discover the organic approach during a short walk through the olive trees.
• Comfortable for many: The activity is wheelchair accessible and suitable for groups, with guides speaking multiple languages.
• Focus on local flavors: Taste cold cuts and cheeses, and learn a regional dessert recipe for the perfect sweet ending.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Authentic Flavors of Lucania in Basilicata

This cooking class in Matera centers around the preparation of classic Lucanian dishes. The hands-on style allows participants to get a true feel for local culinary techniques, from making fresh pasta to seasoning the perfect Braciole alla Lucana. The chefs explain each step clearly, ensuring that even novice cooks can follow along and recreate these regional recipes at home. As aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs fill the air, the convivial atmosphere makes this experience both fun and educational.

The class emphasizes local ingredients, which are key to achieving authentic flavors. The seasonal vegetables used as side dishes showcase the freshness and simplicity of Basilicata’s cuisine. The dessert recipe offers a sweet conclusion, giving participants a complete taste of the area’s culinary traditions.

Scenic Setting: Olive Grove Tour and Organic Approach

A highlight of this experience is the short tour of an olive grove. Here, the Azienda Agricola Mantenera explains their organic farming methods, providing insight into sustainable agriculture. This walk adds an educational element to the day, enriching the culinary experience with knowledge about olive cultivation and the importance of organic practices in regional food production.

Guests observe olive trees, learn about harvesting techniques, and get a closer look at how extra virgin olive oil is made. The picturesque setting enhances the overall enjoyment of the experience, offering a peaceful backdrop to your cooking adventure.

Lunch with Regional Wines and Olive Tea

After the cooking session, the meal is served on a beautiful veranda, where the aromas of the dishes mingle with local wines. The pairings highlight Basilicata’s rich wine heritage, adding depth to your tasting experience. Alongside your homemade dishes, you’ll find olive leaf herbal tea, which complements the flavors and introduces an additional local product.

The congenial atmosphere encourages conversation and relaxation, making this a perfect moment to savor your culinary creations. The inclusion of dessert rounds out the meal, giving a satisfying end to the culinary journey.

Logistics and Meeting Details

This tour begins 3.5 km from Tricarico Village, with clear directions via Google Maps. Parking is free, making it convenient for guests arriving by car. Since transfers are not included, participants should arrange their own transportation. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, providing a straightforward experience.

The tour operates with English, French, and Portuguese-speaking guides. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, and availability varies, so checking start times is recommended.

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Practical Tips for Participants

Guests should bring a camera to capture the scenic surroundings and a comfortable, clothes-friendly outfit that can get dirty. It’s advisable to wear biodegradable insect repellent to stay comfortable outdoors. The experience is not suitable for children under 5, individuals with food allergies, animal allergies, or certain health conditions like altitude sickness, gluten intolerance, or advanced age over 95 years.

Since the activity lasts 4.5 hours, participants should be prepared for a leisurely pace that combines outdoor walking, cooking, and dining. No transfers are provided, so planning transport in advance is essential.

Value and Booking Flexibility

At $67.97 per person, this experience offers a rich, hands-on immersion into Lucanian cuisine with the added bonus of scenic countryside views and an olive grove tour. The reservation policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Booking now and paying later is possible, which helps accommodate changing travel plans. This tour is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone seeking a relaxed, authentic day in Italy’s countryside.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Compared to other experiences in Matera, this tour combines culinary education with nature and sustainability themes. The organic olive grove tour and local wine pairings add unique touches that deepen the appreciation of Basilicata’s regional culture. The private group format fosters intimacy and personalized attention, making it suitable for small parties or couples.

The cost is reasonable for a full culinary experience, especially considering the inclusion of local wine, olive tea, and dessert. The focus on regional recipes like Braciole alla Lucana and homemade pasta offers tangible skills that guests can replicate at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not included. Guests need to arrange their own transfer to the meeting point near Tricarico.

Can children participate in this experience?
The activity is not suitable for children under 5 years old, but older children interested in cooking may enjoy it with supervision.

What should I wear during the class?
Comfortable clothes that can get dirty are recommended, along with biodegradable insect repellent and a camera for photos.

Is this tour accessible for people in wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that more guests can enjoy the experience.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, French, and Portuguese, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

How do I cancel this booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund through the booking platform, offering peace of mind in planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby